Congress Moves to Ban Hemp Nationwide: What It Means for Your Business

The 2018 Farm Bill was a game-changer for hemp, legalizing it federally for the first time in nearly 50 years. This legislation paved the way for an entire industry centered on cannabinoids like CBD and Delta-8 THC, sparking innovation and creating opportunities for farms, manufacturers, and brands nationwide.

Since then, hemp-derived products have become essential components of many wellness, supplement, and functional food businesses. But now, that progress is at risk.

Congress is considering proposals that would ban nearly all ingestible hemp products, including federally legal cannabinoids widely used by consumers and businesses alike.

Here’s what you need to know about the proposed ban, how it could impact your operations, and steps you can take to protect your business.

What’s Happening: Hemp Ban Proposal Moves Through Congress

Both the House and Senate have introduced legislation aiming to narrow the legal definition of hemp, seeking to close what they call a “loophole” created by the 2018 Farm Bill.

In June, the House Appropriations Committee approved language in the FY2026 Agriculture spending bill that would ban any hemp-derived product containing “quantifiable amounts” of THC or cannabinoids with similar effects.

This would effectively outlaw ingestible cannabinoids like CBD, Delta 8 THC, CBG, and CBN at the federal level, regardless of state compliance or existing regulations. Because even non-intoxicating CBD products often contain trace amounts of THC, they too would be banned under this proposal.

What’s at Stake for Your Business

If passed, the legislation would:

• Prohibit the sale of most hemp-derived ingestible products essential to wellness and supplement markets
• Ban products containing trace or non-intoxicating levels of THC, disrupting supply chains
• Threaten thousands of small businesses, farmers, manufacturers, and wholesalers across the country
• Remove consumers’ access to safe, regulated hemp alternatives, pushing them toward unregulated or illicit options

Who’s Driving the Push for a Ban?

Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY), who played a key role in legalizing hemp through the 2018 Farm Bill, is reportedly backing restrictive language in the Senate’s upcoming agriculture appropriations bill that could eliminate the consumable hemp market.

On the House side, Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD), chair of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, FDA, and Related Agencies, is leading efforts to ban hemp products containing any quantifiable THC or similar cannabinoids.

Harris’s subcommittee oversees funding for agencies like the FDA and USDA, which regulate hemp production, testing, and sales—giving him significant influence over how future bans would be enforced.

Industry Opposition and Alternative Proposals

Not all lawmakers agree. Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) has strongly opposed the ban, calling it a move that would “completely destroy the American hemp industry.” He recently introduced the Hemp Economic Mobilization Plan (HEMP) Act, which would expand protections for hemp businesses, including tripling the allowable THC concentration for hemp crops.

The HEMP Act aims to address regulatory challenges faced by growers and manufacturers while supporting continued innovation and market growth.

Current Status of the Bill

After passing the House Appropriations Subcommittee, the spending bill was approved by the full House Appropriations Committee on June 23, 2025. It still must pass the full House, the Senate, and be signed by the President to become law.

While the bill’s passage in its current form is uncertain, it clearly reflects a congressional intent to restrict hemp products and close perceived legal “loopholes,” posing serious risks to businesses throughout the supply chain.

On July 10, 2025, bipartisan members agreed to delay the ban’s implementation for one year. 

Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR) explained that this delay would allow current hemp farmers to finish their crops under existing regulations and provide time for further discussion.

What Happens If the Ban Passes?

Any hemp product containing more than 0.3% total THC or THCa by dry weight would become federally illegal, no matter which THC isomer it contains. This includes products made with synthesized cannabinoids like Delta 8 THC and Delta 10 THC—even if they are non-intoxicating or compliant under current law.

For wholesalers and manufacturers:

• Significant disruptions to supply chains and product portfolios
• Potential shutdowns of small and medium-sized businesses
• Loss of market innovation and investment

For retailers and consumers:

• Reduced access to safe, regulated hemp products
• Increased risk of consumers turning to unregulated alternatives

How You Can Help Protect the Industry

The American Healthy Alternatives Association (AHAA) has launched an easy-to-use action portal where businesses and supporters can quickly contact their senators to oppose the ban.

Take action now → 

Every message counts. Your voice is vital in protecting the future of hemp.

We’re In This Together

The hemp ban proposal may be delayed, but the threat remains. As a key player in the hemp supply chain, staying informed and proactive is critical to safeguarding your business.

Alpha Brands is committed to supporting the industry through transparency, compliance, and advocacy. Together, we can ensure hemp continues to thrive as a legal, regulated, and trusted plant-based ingredient.